Today we lost a bit of history when we helped barn cat legend Hunter cross the rainbow bridge.

Hunter was over 20 years old, and takes a lot of stories with him.

He was legendary Dean's older brother, and was definately the more serious of the two.

Hunter was kind, and helped raise many, many kittens. He loved them.

Hunter was never a fighter with other cats or people.

In his later years, he was a fixture in the lounge, and loved sleeping on his bed in front of the heater. He also loved to eat, and was never shy about asking for his personal can of food.

We'll miss his storied old face, and will remember his kind soul.

Peace to you, Hunter. We're sure you and Dean have plenty to catch up on.

We'll keep the heat on for you.

As you’re reading this, our fearless leaders are on their way to the UPHA convention in Lexington, Kentucky.

The convention brings the best show horse trainers in the country together to exchange ideas, socialize, find ways to grow the industry, plan for the future, and recognize excellence in the industry.

Excellence is where this blog is going.

Scott and Carol are being honored with the greatest award the show horse industry can bestow when they’re inducted into the UPHA Hall of Fame.

 

What's the UPHA?

The UPHA has given a united voice to the individual horse trainers and horse people that have developed the UPHA into the powerful lobby that it is today. In just a little over 40 years, this group has created many concrete programs to realize the common goal of improvement within the industry while still striving to recognize the unique capabilities and talents of each member.

From this small dedicated group, the UPHA has expanded to 21 regional chapters that comprise all 50 states and Canada.

 

 

Here’s the criteria for inclusion in this group of industry greats:

 

To be eligible for induction into the UPHA Hall of Fame, a person or persons (can be a couple/partner) must have derived his or her livelihood from the profession of training show horses or ponies. He or she must have reached their success not only through the champion horses and ponies they have developed and shown, but must possess the respect of their peers throughout the professional conduct they have maintained throughout their careers.

He or she must have willingly given of himself or herself the knowledge that they have acquired over the years, in an effort to help their fellow professionals and further the success of the show horse industry and the training profession. Induction into the UPHA Hall of Fame means this person has earned the highest esteem of their peers.

 

Scott and Carol certainly tick all the boxes for inclusion in this elite group. They both work tirelessly at home developing champion horses and riders, run a successful lesson program that feeds well educated riders to the show world, and maintain a historic farm.

That’s just at home.

 

Scott and Carol are leaders in the industry. Honestly, Scott has served on just about every committee the industry offers at both the regional and national level.  Breeding, horse shows, equitation, you name it, Scott’s imprint is there.

 

Carol has served the industry in countless ways as well. Equitation is her passion, and she is currently serving on the national equitation committee. She recently returned from a clinic where some of the lead instructors in the country mentored younger trainers. She shared experiences to let the younger instructors know that the current leaders are happy to lend a hand to those on the way up.

You may not see Carol in the limelight quite as much as showman Scott, but rest assured, she’s busy behind the scenes getting the work done by getting people to work together.

Both Scott and Carol value hard work. Knollwood Kids learn quickly that hard work is rewarded with success, and that there is no magic way to the top.

Because they value work ethic as the way to success, they’ve found ways for some riders to work their way into the show ring. These fortunate Knollwood Kids who have a passion for horses learn from some of the best mentors around.

All of Team Knollwood congratulates Scott and Carol on their induction into the UPHA Tom Moore Hall of Fame.

Thank you for sharing your passion with all of us.

 

We've welcomed a number of new riders to our lesson program recently, and we're thrilled to have a large number of riders joining our academy team this season.

With all this learning going on, we've been receiving many, many questions.

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked. Please reach out to your instructor with any questions.  The most common questions will be answered in a future blog.

 

 

When Can I Sign Up For Summer Riding School?

We’re really looking forward to Knollwood Summer 2024.

Our currently enrolled students can pick their sessions starting on February 1. We offer ‘classic’ summer riding school sessions for our newest enrolled riders, Knollwood Show Prep sessions for our students showing at the summer Knollwood show, and Pattern Camps for our riders showing away from home in the academy division.

We’ll open camps up to the public on March 1, so enrolled students, please make sure you select your week by February 25.

Camps will be billed on your March statement.

 

Why are Some Lesson Horses Difficult to Keep Trotting?

It’s by design.

Riders are taught from the beginning that horses are living, breathing creatures, and that we must provide information to them so they know what we need them to do.

Our beginner horses are geniuses at teaching a rider to follow through with their directions. A big part of riding is to follow through with your horse until he does what you’re asking, and changes what he’s doing.

Our patient, methodical beginner horses also keep new riders safe with their patience and wisdom.

 

 

What's With All the Bareback Pads?

Knollwood is known for producing riders with beautiful, functional leg positions. Much of that position comes from the strength that is developed through bareback riding.

Riding bareback teaches balance, as a rider stays in the middle of the bareback pad without stirrups. It also strengthens core and leg muscles as a rider works to stay back on the pad and posts the trot without moving forward.

It’s really a great workout. And it’s fun!

 

 

What’s the Difference Between the Horses that Live in the Slip Stalls, and the Ones Who Live in Box Stalls?

The horses who live in the slip stalls do our beginner lessons, and most of our advanced beginner lessons. They enjoy going outside at night, and get pretty restless inside if they have to stay in too long.

During the recent cold snap, we gave them extra hay to munch on while they stayed in for some long days.

If these horses didn’t go out for ‘recess’ at night, they’d have too much energy to teach beginners in the arena.

 

The horses that live in the box stalls are our horses for intermediate and advanced riders. Most of them travel to academy shows with us, and many of them have shoes on. Because they don’t teach beginners, they don’t need to blow off as much steam every day, as their experienced riders have learned to handle a little energy.                      

These horses don’t enjoy being outside at night. They don’t handle extreme weather well, and don’t tolerate flies in the summer either.

They go out for ‘recess’ during the day, and return to their stalls for dinner and sleep.

 

 

What are Those Carts in the Arena For?

Those are jog carts, and they’re used for training the show horses.

The horses in the show barn are worked every day except Mondays, and are trained in different ways throughout the week.

Using the jog carts is an important part of show horse training. The horse can will build endurance without weight on his back while jogging for miles on the soft arena footing. It also reinforces carriage and attention to the bridle and balance.

 

 

Who Won the Horse of the Year Election?

Oh, we know, but that’s classified information. Come to the banquet on February 24 to find out!

 

 

 

When Can I Be a Helper?

Helpers are often the first contact a new rider makes in the barn, so we’re very selective about who gets to become a helper.

First of all, you must be taking care of your own horse before and after your lessons.

Helpers must be kind to all riders, answer some questions from riders, run with beginners and help explain what the instructor is saying, must interact with the rider they’re helping, and must take great care of our lesson horses.

Being a helper is a BIG responsibility, and we invite the best Knollwood Kids to be mentors to the next group of riders.

 

 

When Are the 2024 Knollwood Shows?

Our spring show is on May 10-12, our summer show is on August 16-18, and our fall show is on October 18-20.

We’re planning the same format, with pattern classes inside on Friday night, walk trot canter, 11 and over walk trot, and premier walk trot classes on Saturday, and will finish up with leadline, maiden walk trot, and 10 and under walk and trot classes on Sunday.

 

 

Who’s the Leader of the School Horses in the Pasture?

Believe it or not, Hugo runs the herd. Maybe he’s slow in lessons because he’s saving up his energy for being the sheriff of the pasture at night.

 

Please keep asking questions, and we’ll answer them in future blogs.

 

What’s coming up?

 February 1

In-house enrollment for 2024 Summer Riding School begins for currently enrolled students. Preferred enrollment continues through February 25, and camps will become available to the public on March 1.

 

 

February 10

10:00 AM

In House Consignment Sale at Knollwood.

Please have donations to Knollwood by February 3.

All clothing should be marked with your name, cell number, approximate size, and price.

For shoppers, we’ll have experienced show moms to help you shop, and Jodi will be there with her fantastic ties and accessories to complete your look.

 

 

February 24

Our academy tailor will be at the barn in the morning until early afternoon. All of the time spots are full, so we’ll plan an additional day. Please talk to Ann is you’d like an appointment!

 

 

Also February 24

Knollwood Knockout Banquet

6:30

The Legend at Merrill Hills

Please join us for our annual celebration of all things Knollwood. All Knockouts will receive an invitation in the mail, and we hope to send them out next week.

Remember, help us celebrate our winners in style by following the venue’s dress code:

-No denim of any kind

-Men’s shirts must have collars and be tucked in

 

March 16

Academy Kick Off Night

6:00 PM

All academy parents and riders are invited to join us for a get together to learn how to create the perfect tie knot for your rider, and how to create a prefect show ring bun, and how to apply age appropriate make up for your rider.

 

 

April 13-14

IASPHA Spring Show

Beyond Stable Farm

Our first academy show of the year!

 

 

May 8-10

Knollwood Spring Show

Our first In-Barn show of the year!

 

 

 

See you at the barn!!

 

This storm was mind blowing.

It really wasn't the initial crazy snow and wind that tested our resolve, after all, we're seasoned Wisconsinites.

We must admit that the two days without power in subarctic temps and wind was mind numbing.

We owe debts of gratitude to everyone who lent a hand to get us through our lastest adventure.

 

Our staff was nothing short of amazing.

From toting buckets of water in Scott's truck from the show barn to the school barn (the show barn had a bigger generator), to cleaning stalls and taking care of horses in the dark, everyone pitched in to keep horses safe and happy.

 

Our customers were lifesavers.

They donated generators they weren't using, and helped us get them running.

They took Hazel Belle and Izzy to their homes for play dates.

They brought hot food and beverages to our staff.

Heck, Tracy even took Carol out for drinks on Saturday, which was just what our field marshall needed.

Great thanks to everyone who helped us through these difficult days. 

It's appreciated more than you know.

 

 

See you soon at the warm, toasty barn!

 

 

 

 

We’re all back to work and school after the holidays, and sometimes January can seem like an endless month.

We have some great ideas to help you enjoy the snowy weeks of January!

 

 

Make a Riding Resolution for the New Year!

Our bulletin board in the school barn is filling up with some great plans for 2024. Some of our favorites are to ride new horses, to learn more about horse care, and to not let emotions get in the way of a good ride.

Put your resolution on the board the next time you’re at the barn!

 

The lesson horses HAVE made their resolutions for the new year!

Some of the most entertaining are:

Pumpkin has resolved to do something wrong. He never has, and is looking forward to seeing what it feels like.

Bee has resolved to learn to stop and stand quietly when asked.

Hooper has resolved to conquer his fear of ‘over the head’ clothing.

What will yours be?

 

 

Try On Your Show Clothes!

January is a great time to make sure you haven’t grown out of your clothes. You’ll have plenty of time to arrange alterations, or to get new clothing.

While you’re at it, January is a wonderful time to re-stock your caboodle! Make sure your hair bows or accessories match your clothes for 2024, and that you have plenty of supplies for whatever the season may bring.

 

 

Yup, that's the big outdoor ring doubling as an ice rink in 2017.

Be Grateful for Heat.

As you walk through the chute on the way to your lesson, be grateful for the toasty heat that keeps us all warm. The unheated chute is a very short journey between the heated school barn and the heated arena.

And there are NO FLIES!

 

 

Become Better Acquainted With the Newest Lesson Horses!

Big beautiful Earl came to Knollwood late last summer, and is a wonderful addition.  This big gray quarter horse is a bareback riding dream, and is already teaching beginner lessons. Did we mention that he’s beautiful?

Beautiful ‘Mr. Mulligan Knows Things’ is a Saddlebred who was being rehabbed after a rescue situation. Thanks to great detective work by Nicki Duerr, we know that his real name is An American Soldier, and that he’s 19.

He’s working with experienced riders, and is working on pattern skills with Scott and Carol’s riders.

Mulligan is happy as can be, and is going to be a great addition to the lesson horse library.

 

 

 

 

 

Our 2022 ASHBA Academy Aweard winners.

Photo credit: Hanna Agathen

 

Renew your association memberships!

Show season starts in April, so you can dream of spring while updating your memberships for 2024.

All academy team riders should join the American Saddlebred Horse and Breeder’s Association to be included in their ‘Academy Award’ program.

Every time you enter the ring, you earn 1 point. If you earn a ribbon for 2^nd place through 8^th, you receive an additional point. If you win a class, you receiver 2 additional points.

If you accumulate 15 points between September 1, 2023 and September 1, 2024, you’ll earn an academy award from the association.

And yes, Fall 2023 points from IASPHA and UPHA Fall are included in your 20241 point totals.

You can join the national organization online here.

 

 

 

 

The  Illinois American Saddlebred Pleasure Horse Association runs 3 shows we attend at Beyond Stable Farm. If you’re participating in any of the IASPHA shows, you can join, or renew your membership online.

 

 

 

 

The American Saddlebred Association of Wisconsin runs both the Summerfun show at State Fair Park in July, and the Summer Showcase event at the Ozaukee County Fairgrounds in August. If you plan on participating in either of these show, you can join the organization online.

Your instructor is happy to help you figure which organizations to join, and can help with the forms to be sure you're nominated to earn points towards end of the season awards.

And don't forget to renew your Knollwood Knockout membership!

 

 

 

Welcome a New Rider.

We’ve started 2 Welcome to Knollwood sessions this month, and our first mini camp of 2024 is coming up on Sunday, January 28.

Please reach out and welcome our newest riders. It means a lot to them and to their families to feel welcome. The barn can be a little overwhelming to new riders, and you can make them at ease with a word or two of welcome and encouragement.

Heck, you can volunteer to help at a mini camp, too!

 

What’s Coming Up?

 Camp Sign Up for Enrolled Riders

Begins February 1

Riders currently enrolled in our lesson program can sign up for summer riding school sessions starting on February 1. Our popular show prep weeks are back, as are Tiny Tot camps.

Be sure to talk to your instructor to see which camp is right for you!

Remember, camp fees are non-refundable.

 

 

Academy In-House Consignment Sale

Saturday, February 10

11:00 AM– 2:00 PM

All of our new academy riders are invited to shop the Knollwood show clothing collection. Our veteran academy team has an assortment of outgrown show outfits. Experienced show moms will be available for personal shopping, and Jodi will be in attendance with her ties and accessories. She’s the queen of show bling!

Veterans, if you have outgrown show clothes to sell, please have them to the barn by February 3, and label them with your name, cell phone #, approximate size, and the price.

 

 

Jelly Bean Jods Ordering for 2024!

February 12 – 29

It’s time to get your special Knollwood edition Jelly Bean Jods!

We’re offering the navy jods with tan knee patches and Knollwood embroidery along the bottom of the right leg.

Size samples will be available, and the great things about these jods are that they can be altered BEFORE you get them! You can lengthen or shorten, and take the waist in or out so they come to you ready to go.

The order will go in on March 1.

 

 

Academy Tailor Appointments

Saturday, February 24

9:30 AM – 1:00?

Trish is coming to measure for custom vests and shirts, and to fit alterations. Please talk to Ann is you’d like to book an appointment.

 

Knollwood Knockout Banquet

Merrill Hills Country Club

Saturday, February 24

6:00

It’s time for the event of the season.

All members and their families are invited to join our annual celebration of all things Knollwood.

This evening has it all:

Friends!!!

Social Time

Dinner

Awards

Horse of the Year reveal

State of the Farm address by Scott

Treasurer Report by the one and only Susan

Slide show

Dancing

Invitations will in the mail shortly, and we hope you can all join the fun.

 

Reminder:

Country Club dress code is in effect.

No denim of any kind.

Mens shirts must have collars, and be tucked in.

Thank you for helping us celebrate our champions in style!

 

Academy Kick Off Night

Saturday, March 16

6:00 PM

All of our academy showing families are invited to join us for an informative evening to start the season.

Scott will share his tricks for tying the perfect tie know for small riders.

Magician Katrina will teach the ‘Carol approved’ show bun, and will help everyone understand the art of age appropriate makeup for young riders in the show ring.

Of course, we’ll have snacks!

 

 

IASPHA Spring Show

April 13-14

Beyond Stable Farm

Our first academy show of the season!

 

 

 

Knollwood Spring Show

May 10-12

Our first in-barn academy show of 2024!

 

 

 

See you at the barn!